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Behen’s first day as state CIO will be Feb. 14. He will work under DTMB Director John Nixon. Phyllis Mellon has been serving as acting CIO.

Behen will replace Ken Theis, who left public service after serving three years as state CIO. Beginning in late 2009, Theis served in the dual role of CIO and director of the newly consolidated DTMB. With Behen’s appointment, Michigan is again separating those two jobs.

Nixon wrote in the memo that Behen brings distinguished credentials in public service. “He brings a passion for driving technology improvements for a more efficient and transparent government,” Nixon wrote.

According to the memo, Behen has been named twice to CIO Magazine’s CIO 100 list of the top 100 IT programs, and to the Crain’s Detroit Business “40 Under 40” list for outstanding professional achievement before the age of 40.